Ah, summer. While you can’t control the allergens from the lush greenery and blooming gardens outside, there’s plenty you can do indoors. From dust mite matter to pet dander and grass pollen, common allergens can appear in any corner of your home. Here are some strategies to minimize their presence.
Ditch the dust
Dust and dust mite matter are common household allergens. When cleaning, make sure dust is truly gone. Go over furniture, ceiling fans, and blinds with a slightly damp microfiber cloth, which traps dust instead of brushing it into the air. Vacuums have the same superpower, so vacuum items like sofas, mattresses, and curtains. Vacuums with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter are especially effective. They can remove 99.9 percent of dust, pollen, mold, and other airborne allergens, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Cover pillows with protective dust covers. Toss them into the washing machine regularly – every few weeks for pillowcases and covers and every few months for pillows.
Replace air filters (or add them)
Make sure the air filters in your central air conditioners or other units are fresh. HEPA filters will do the most efficient job. Cut down on mold by using exhaust fans in areas of high moisture, like bathrooms. You can also add stand-alone air purifiers to rooms like bedrooms and living rooms, where you spend a lot of time. At times when outdoor air pollen counts are high, rely on air conditioning to cool down rooms instead of opening windows and doors.
Minimize pet dander and pollen
Brush and bathe pets regularly to cut down on dander and shedding; two common household allergens. When animals go out for a walk, wipe off their paws with a damp cloth before coming back inside. And regularly wash pets’ bedding and toys. If you’re especially sensitive, keep pets off beds and sofas.
Pay attention to your laundry detergent
Some laundry detergents contain cleaning enzymes, heavy fragrances, and dyes that can irritate sensitive skin. So, if you notice any irritation or sensitivities, err on the side of caution with a hypoallergenic product, like all® free clear, which removes 99% of top seasonal and everyday allergens* (such as pet dander, dust, and pollen) from clothes and other fabric. It tackles impurities (like dirt, body oil and allergens) without leaving irritating residues for a clean that’s gentle on skin.
This summer, make your home a refuge by banishing dust, changing air filters, and cleaning up pesky pet dander. For clothes, bedding, and more, a hypoallergenic laundry detergent goes the distance. Make the switch today.
Click here to purchase all® free clear
*Dog and cat dander, dust mite matter, ragweed pollen, grass/tree pollen. all® free clear is not intended to prevent or treat allergies.
Sources:
EPA: https://www.epa.gov/indoor-air-quality-iaq/what-hepa-filter
Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/allergies/in-depth/allergy/art-20049365
Cedars Sinai: https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/cleaning-reduce-allergies.html
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